The Heath-Newark-Licking Port Authority and our business customers are not only powered by clean affordable natural gas, but also very ably provide goods and services to the energy industry. Licking County’s economy, and that of our region and state, benefits from all aspects of the growing natural gas industry. It’s jobs.

One challenge is how we move natural gas to safely reach residential and business owners. This challenge has been answered by pipelines, which are the safest, most environmentally-friendly, efficient and reliable mode of transfer for natural gas, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Ohio’s natural gas utilities and infrastructure professionals work with federal and state regulators, elected officials, and local stakeholders to uphold important safety policies that ensure system integrity and reliability.

There’s a new natural gas service line being installed by The Energy Cooperative on our Port Authority campus. When I learn of new pipeline construction advancing in Ohio or see construction for these new lines underway, I’m reminded of the long-term benefits in having a modern, safe and reliable energy infrastructure that well serves our economy and quality of life.

Rick Platt is the President and CEO of the Heath-Newark-Licking County Port Authority. He is a manufacturing advocate with three decades of experience on industrial development issues.